The bilingual program at IIL

We are a school with a long-standing history starting in 1903. In addition to our French and English sections, we have recently expanded our bilingual section. Read more about it in this article initially published by the family platform Parentville. They have interviewed two mothers whose children attend the IIL bilingual section.

The school

IIL is an international school with a plurilingual approach meaning they teach English and French as core languages in the classroom but every child’s home language is welcomed and encouraged. From early years education (3-6 years old) through primary school (6-11 years old).

IIL offers 3 sections (English, French, and Bilingual). I will focus on the bilingual section, which was launched 3 years ago. 

When Christina decided to place her children at IIL, it was based on several factors. After looking into the other private schools in Geneva, she concluded that IIL was the right choice for her family: the fees are competitive; she liked their academic rigor and the idea of uniforms. The high-level education is high on her priority list, and IIL meets her expectations. But most importantly, she was hooked when she discovered the high-quality bilingual program! 

IIL’s bilingual program

Given their approach to learning languages at IIL, the school decided to create their version of a bilingual program where children can learn both languages, at the same level, at the same time. 

How?

In the bilingual section, children follow both the French and the British curricula. Their activities are in English and in French. Native English speakers will work more on their French and vice versa. These kids may do some work slightly harder than those from other sections, as this is an ambitious program. But according to the parents I talked to, it really works, and kids love going to school! 

Because English and French curricula are different and focus on different skills for different ages, children in the bilingual section work first on writing in French and start reading in English. 

Another mom, Kate, told me that her daughter started the school at age 3 ½ speaking only French. Two years later she is fluent in English. At age 5 ½, she starts her adventure with English literacy skills as well, and it is all going well.

99% of children in her daughter’s class started with one language, and two years later they can communicate in both languages. It does sound fantastic! 

According to Kate, kids learn about the same topic in both French and English (but on different days), so that they can have a bilingual vocabulary in every subject. 

Another interesting aspect is that many families with a non-English or non-French parent are enrolling their children in bilingual to get the best of both. The classes are filled with children and cultures from all over the world. 

More than academics

Kate also loves the school’s focus on collaboration between the children and the way they learn how to resolve conflicts and compromise. I agree these are the soft skills that are as essential in adulthood, as hard skills. IIL is also the only school in Switzerland and France to implement the Finnish anti-bullying program – KiVa. 

IIL is a well-rounded school with a community feel.  Although the focus is on academics, the amount of homework grows with the children (but differently in each section). But this is not all. The Institute is also proud of its sports program, offers a rich artistic program, is very IT-oriented, and organizes enjoyable outings and events for children of all ages.

Making the bilingual section work

Following two curricula at once may seem like a lot for children, but IIL magically makes it work. I won’t lie to you, they work a lot, but they also play a lot, and everything is wrapped in a friendly and warm atmosphere. Of course the children learn academics but they are also encouraged to learn through games, collaboration and creativity.

Of course, IIL is not the only school with a bilingual program. But all these programs use different methods. Every school is different. With this article, I wanted to give you a glimpse into the International Institute of Lancy, do not hesitate to reach out to them in case of questions. Their friendly staff will be happy to answer your question or arrange a visit to the campus. Personally, I am very much intrigued and fascinated by their bilingual section!